Affogato is the easiest Italian dessert that only needs two ingredients—espresso and gelato (or ice cream). And that beautiful simplicity makes it the perfect dessert to serve guests at dinner parties.
Why You’ll Love This Affogato
Although my love for espresso started with my trip to Portugal years ago, affogato has a special place in my heart from the countless times I’ve enjoyed this dessert in Italy. The contrast between chilled, creamy ice cream and hot, bold espresso is pure perfection—a true testament to Europe’s thriving coffee culture. Here’s what else you’ll love about this easy affogato recipe:
- It’s a simple dessert that impresses. It’s amazing how elegant two simple ingredients can look in a glass cup. Your dinner guests will love it!
- It’s easy to adapt and get creative. Make your affogato night extra special by adding chopped nuts, a drizzle of caramel sauce, a splash of liquor, or even swapping espresso for hot chocolate to create a kid-friendly version. I’ve shared more creative ideas below!
Affogato Ingredients
- Ice Cream or Gelato: In Italy, gelato is traditionally used, but feel free to use any type of vanilla ice cream you enjoy. Today, I’m using my homemade vegan vanilla ice cream, dotted with cacao nibs for a delightfully crunchy touch.
- Freshly Brewed Espresso: If you have an espresso machine, great! If not, you can also use a Moka espresso maker or AeroPress to brew espresso. Instant espresso powder or strongly brewed coffee can work well as a substitute.
Find the printable recipe with measurements below.
How To Make Affogato
- Add ice cream. Place the ice cream in a shorter glass or dessert bowl. I also like to use a really good ice cream scooper to get that perfect mounded shape. I’ve linked my favorite one in the recipe card below. We’re going for an elegant presentation here after all!
- Add espresso. Pour the hot espresso over the ice cream and dig in with a spoon immediately. The ice cream will melt and swirl with the espresso—it’s divine! If your guests want to portion out their espresso, you can serve the espresso in a separate shot glass and allow them to pour it themselves as they eat the ice cream. Plus, it’s fun to get them involved in the process!
Affogato Variations
- Hot chocolate affogato: Make an alcohol-free version for kids on special holidays by pouring hot chocolate on top instead of espresso! I also recommend pouring the hot chocolate into a small jug for them to pour on top, to give them the full DIY experience.
- Boozy affogato: Add a splash of liqueur, like amaretto, Frangelico, or Baileys for a slightly boozy touch. Almost like an edible version of an espresso martini.
- Nutty affogato: If you’re serving this up with plain vanilla ice cream or gelato, adding chopped nuts such as hazelnuts, walnuts, or pistachios, adds a delicious crunch.
More Easy Desserts
If you make this affogato recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comment box below! Your review will help other readers in the community. And if you’re hungry for more healthy food inspiration and exclusive content, join my free newsletter here.
Description
Affogato is the perfect Italian dessert for dinner parties! The chilled, creamy ice cream with hot, bitter espresso is a divine combination your guests will love.
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Add ice cream. Place the ice cream in a shorter glass or dessert bowl.
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Add espresso. Pour the hot espresso over the ice cream and dig in with a spoon immediately! The ice cream will melt and swirl with the espresso.
- If you don’t have an espresso machine, don’t worry! You can also use a Moka espresso maker or AeroPress to brew espresso. Instant espresso powder or strongly brewed coffee can work well as a substitute.
- If you watch the video above, I’m using a double shot of espresso on top of m ice cream. My favorite!
Calories: 24kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 11mg | Potassium: 37mg | Fiber: 0.04g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 57IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 0.04mg
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Recipe originally posted June 2016, but updated to include new photos, and information for your benefit!
